Santa Ono Shifts Focus: From University President to Research Leadership at Hudson Institute

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  Published in Science and Technology on Fri, Aug 8nd, 2025

Former University of Michigan (U-M) President Samuel “Santa” Ono is embarking on a new chapter, transitioning from higher education administration to lead research initiatives as the next president and CEO of the Hudson Institute. This move, announced August 18th, marks a significant shift for Ono, who unexpectedly resigned from his U-M post earlier this year, and signals a renewed focus on scientific advancement within a non-partisan think tank environment.

The Hudson Institute, based in Indianapolis, Indiana, is a research organization founded in 1962 with a mission to advance scholarship and public policy. It tackles complex issues across various fields including economics, foreign policy, defense, and healthcare. Ono’s appointment, effective September 18th, positions him at the helm of an institution dedicated to rigorous research and informed policymaking – a departure from the often politically charged landscape of university leadership.

Ono's tenure as U-M president, spanning just over two years, was marked by both successes and challenges. He inherited a university grappling with financial pressures exacerbated by pandemic fallout and ongoing debates surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). While he championed initiatives aimed at bolstering research funding and student support, his departure in January 2024 followed a period of intense scrutiny regarding the university's handling of a Title IX complaint involving a former faculty member. The circumstances surrounding his resignation were described as “amicable” by U-M officials, but speculation about underlying tensions persisted.

The decision to move to the Hudson Institute appears to be a strategic one for Ono, allowing him to leverage his deep understanding of research and innovation within an environment less susceptible to the political pressures that often plague public universities. He has consistently expressed a passion for scientific discovery and technological advancement, and the Hudson Institute provides a platform for him to directly influence those areas without the complexities of managing a large university system.

"I am incredibly excited to join the Hudson Institute," Ono stated in a press release. "The institute's commitment to rigorous research and its dedication to informing public policy aligns perfectly with my own values. I believe that evidence-based decision-making is crucial for addressing the challenges facing our nation, and I look forward to working with the talented team at Hudson to advance this mission."

The Hudson Institute’s current president and CEO, John P. Graham, will retire at the end of August after 17 years leading the organization. He expressed his enthusiasm about Ono's arrival, highlighting his extensive experience in both academia and research leadership. "Santa brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Hudson Institute," Graham said. “His vision for advancing scientific discovery and promoting public policy will be invaluable as we continue our work.”

Ono’s background is particularly relevant to the Hudson Institute's focus on healthcare innovation. He holds a medical degree from Harvard University and has conducted extensive research in ophthalmology, focusing on retinal diseases. This expertise positions him well to guide the institute's efforts in addressing critical health challenges and informing policy related to biomedical advancements.

The transition also represents an opportunity for U-M to move forward under interim President Martin A. Messaris while a permanent replacement is sought. The university has launched a search process, aiming to find a leader who can navigate the complexities of higher education in the 21st century and address the ongoing financial and political challenges facing institutions nationwide.

While Ono’s departure from U-M was unexpected for many, his move to the Hudson Institute underscores his unwavering commitment to research and innovation. He leaves behind a legacy at Michigan marked by both progress and controversy, but he enters his new role with a clear mandate: to champion evidence-based policy and drive scientific discovery within a respected and influential think tank. The shift signals a potential realignment in Ono’s career trajectory, prioritizing direct engagement with research and its impact on public policy over the broader administrative responsibilities of leading a major university. His leadership at the Hudson Institute promises to be closely watched as it navigates an increasingly complex and polarized landscape.